March Hares and Monkeys' Uncles - Hardcover

From the publishers of the Number 1 bestseller Red Herrings and White Elephants Why is a March hare mad? Why do we sometimes call ourselves a monkey's uncle? Why do cricketers who don't score anything get out for a duck? Who was Gordon Bennett? Whilst we might choose our words carefully, we rarely think about the origins behind the many phrases, place names and expressions we use everyday. Yet, behind these words lies a fascinating story, steeped in the weird and wonderful history and traditions of everyday life. From names of streets and public houses, to the names of countries, seas and oceans, this book answers the questions you've always had about the language we all use. So if it's all Greek to you and seems like hocus pocus, for Pete's sake don't be left on tenterhooks, have a gander at this idiosyncratic tome. Make no bones about it - it's the bee's knees!

Writer and editor Harry Oliver's passion for language began when he discovered Roald Dahl during a rainy summer school holiday. His love affair with the English language led him to study Literature the University of London where he attained his degree. On leaving he entered the world of publishing. Author of two other books, he lives and works in London.